Each week, our football staff at DK Pittsburgh Sports predicts the Steelers' result, along with sharing a few related thoughts.
For a full preview of this matchup with the Jets, check my Kickoff.
Chris Halicke (1-2): The Steelers have an opportunity to get back to .500 before a brutal five-game stretch, though the Jets aren't as terrible as one might have once thought. They've been effective against the run, holding the Ravens and Bengals to under 70 yards. Zach Wilson presents a different challenge -- one the Steelers have not yet seen. But the Jets are decimated at offensive tackle, having put three on injured reserve already. Even without T.J. Watt, this defense should get after Wilson. On offense, it's simple: Run. The. Football. It won't be easy, but I'm seeing continued chemistry between the line and running backs. Steelers, 23-17
Matt Williamson (0-3): The Jets have exciting young pieces, but they also are very weak at both offensive tackles, as well as the middle of the field on defense at linebacker and safety. The biggest concern is Wilson. There has to be a rust factor with last year's No. 2 overall pick, and his rookie season was a disaster. Expect the Steelers' coaching staff to throw a ton at Wilson. I think the Steelers can dictate the flow on both sides of the ball, especially in the second half. Steelers, 24-13
Ramon Foster (1-2): The reason the Steelers win this game is the defense. If they’re going to send Wilson out there, this defense will do a lot to disrupt him. They’ve got to get to him. They’ve got to confuse him. They’ve got to show him things that young quarterbacks aren’t used to seeing. But I think it’ll be close. The offense still isn't anywhere near where it needs to be. Steelers, 20-18
Corey Crisan (0-0): Teryl Austin called the run defense’s work a “process” this week, which doesn’t signify to me that they’ll contain Michael Carter and an emerging Breece Hall. I could say the same for the Jets’ run defense, which is middle of the pack in the NFL. I know fans are clamoring for Mitch Trubisky to air it out, but I think Najee Harris has his best game of the season. Steelers, 27-20
Eddie Provident (2-1): I have no reason to believe that this offense will take the right steps to build off of the first half performance last Thursday. But the Jets are just too unproven, and their quarterback situation is such a question mark, I don't see how they get moving, either. Better defense wins this game. Steelers, 17-10
Dejan Kovacevic (1-2): I enjoy nothing about predicting anything related to this team, and I sure hope it shows. This offense has been historically brutal, and this defense, whether beaten up or not, has been almost an equal disappointment. But then, the Other Jets come to town to confuse even those concepts. Uncle already. Steelers, 3-2
Let's have your picks in the comments!
